Students taking classes in the HSET distance learning program must have consistent access to the minimum hardware, software and connections as outlined below.

Hardware:

• Pentium computer (or Macintosh equivalent)
• 64 MB of RAM
• Super VGA compatible monitor (Screen resolution of 800 x 600 pixels)
• CD-ROM drive
• 56,000 kbps modem
• Soundcard and speakers

Software:

• Operating System: Windows 2000 or XP or MacOS 9.1 and OS X
• Browser: Internet Explorer 6.0, Netscape 7.1, Firefox1.x, (or Macintosh equivalent: Safari 1.2)*
• Word processing software (e.g., MS Word, Corel WordPerfect)
• Adobe Acrobat Reader
• Windows Media Player
• Macromedia Flash Player
• Real One Player

Connections:

• Local ISP or equivalent
• Modem line access
• E-mail address

Miscellaneous:

• TV/VCR access

*Note - America Online (AOL) users: You can use AOL as your Internet Service Provider (or ISP, which means your connection to the Web), but you can’t use AOL as your browser for eCollege. AOL uses proprietary software for their browser that does not follow standard HTML coding. If AOL is your ISP, you need to install Netscape Communicator or Microsoft Internet Explorer (both available as free downloads). Once you have installed one of these browsers, you simply log onto your AOL account, launch Netscape or Explorer, and use the browser to access www.iowacconline.com 
 
CAUTION: Do not download Netscape or Explorer from AOL - these versions may cause sporadic problems with an online course and can be incompatible with the eCollege format.
 
Please refer to the Iowa Community College Online Consortium (ICCOC) for the latest guide on technical requirements.

Send us an e-mail or call 1-800-895-0811 for more information.